Why Communities Need Engineers: Helping Humans Live Together

Gr 4-7–An overview of the field of engineering, with fascinating examples of its applications throughout history and from all over the world. Part of the “Orca Timeline” series, this title covers engineering in ­seven different areas: Water, Waste, ­Shelter, Energy, Communication, Health, and Transportation. Each topic is divided into subtopics depending on the type of engineering involved, such as Civil, Mechanical, Agricultural, Computer, Electrical, or some combination thereof, and includes examples of projects, noting the location and year of each. From coverage of ancient Roman aqueducts to bionic arms to ­3D-printed houses to be used one day on Mars, the author explains how engineers contribute to projects that benefit all of humanity. A handful of notable engineers are profiled. There is a great deal of information packed into this volume, which is heavily illustrated with graphics, diagrams, and photographs, most of which enhance the text, while others, such as silly illustrated jokes and confusing graphs, are not as appealing. At times, the book has the look and feel of a textbook, which may deter some readers, despite the wide-ranging and ­interesting topics it contains. Back matter includes a glossary, a list of print and ­online resources, and an index. ­